Best Handheld CB Radio
Before the inception of mobile phones and the internet, CB or citizen band radios were primarily the means of communication. Truckers used them mostly to listen to weather channels or chat with fellow truckers. However, with advancing technology and internet use, CB radios have been left for use in work-related purposes. They also come in handy during camping and hiking escapades, especially in areas with no internet use. Below are some top models available on the market if you are searching for these old-phase communication devices.
Top 4 Handheld CB Radios
Top 4 Handheld CB Radio Review
1. Midland 75-822 Handheld CB Radio
The Midland 75-822 Handheld CB Radio is an amazing CB radio from Midland Radio. The radio is a compact and portable unit with sleek back design. The only feature that makes it quite large is the rubberized antenna, which you attach by yourself. It comes with a backlit LCD screen, making it easier to view frequencies in all light conditions.
An outstanding feature of the Midland 75-822 Handheld CB Radio is the keypad lock ability. By activating this feature, you avoid unnecessary or accidental changes in your frequency as you can lock your preferred settings. Users can access up to 40 channels, and the automatic scan feature makes it possible to find active channels within seconds.
Another great feature of this unit is the integrated automatic noise limiter, which improves the reception of the radio instantly in case of weak signals. You can also leverage the input memory, which allows for storage and access of up to five frequencies. Like other top CB radios, you can listen to the NOAA weather radio for frequent weather updates.
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2. Uniden PRO501HH Professional Handheld CB Radio
The Uniden PRO501HH Professional Handheld CB Radio is an upgrade from the 401HH sequel with advanced features. As the name suggests, the radio is from Uniden, a reputable Japanese company that excels in the manufacture of wireless communication devices. The unit is relatively larger compared to other handheld CB radios with a jagged matte black finish.
The unit comes with enough sized LCD screen with an orange backlight, providing sufficient visibility of frequencies and battery level in dark and bright light conditions. You can also tune up to 40 frequencies, including the vital NOAA weather channel for crucial weather and traffic updates. You will also like the radios’ dual-watch feature, enabling users to talk on one frequency while monitoring another. This feature comes in handy when traveling in groups.
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3. Cobra HH50WXST Handheld CB Radio
The Cobra HH50WXST Handheld CB Radio joins the list of slim, compact, and rugged CB radios with a rugged matte black finish. Like other excelling products mentioned in this list, you can tune-up to 40 channels with high and low power switch features. This feature makes it possible to use the radios’ battery efficiently. Switch to low power when using it for close range and high power for long-range communications.
The SoundTracker system is another feature highlight that eliminates up to 90% of noise when communicating. The dual watch feature is also appealing as you can monitor double frequencies simultaneously. The omnidirectional microphone is probably what differentiates the Cobra HH50WXST Handheld CB Radio from other CB radios.
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4. Cobra HHRT50 Handheld CB Radio
The Cobra HHRT50 Handheld CB Radio is another excellent radio from Cobra with similar designs to other sequels from this manufacturer. The unit comes with a similar backlit screen, with the magnetic mount antenna being the only difference. This antenna solves weak signal issues when driving or on a vehicle, as most CB radios signals are not powerful enough to penetrate vehicles’ frames.
As for the channels, the radio comes with 40 CB channels and 10 NOAA frequencies. Finding the right channel is also easy, thanks to its automatic scan feature. Like the other model, it features a dual-watch feature for concurrent operations.
Pros
- Magnetic external antenna mount
- Dual watch feature
- SoundTracker cancels noise
Cons
- Short-range radio
- AC charger not included
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How to Choose CB Radio
Apart from handheld features, you should consider several features before buying a CB radio. Among them include;
- Transmission range – the range is undoubtedly one of the crucial factors when buying these devices. Go for a short-range radio if you intend to use it for short distances, such as job sites. On the other hand, communication between trucks or during camping requires a long-range CB radio.
- NOAA weather channel – this channel is overly essential if you intend to use your radio for travel. With this, you will always be updated with weather and traffic situations that can affect your travel.
- Ease of use – handheld CD radios are designed to be used on the go. As such, the function keys should be easy to operate.
- Power source – for travelers, CB radios that can be charged by cars are the best choice. Fortunately, most radios feature charging cables that can be used with the cigarette port.
- Screen display – though not critical, go for a CB radio with sufficient screen display. The screen should also display in various lighting conditions.
You should also consider price, battery efficiency, and the presence of external antenna before making a purchase decision.
Conclusion
Despite the advent of technology and the internet, CB radios still have their importance. If you have spent some time around trucks, events, or camping, you shouldn’t be new to how CB radios work. Therefore, when searching for the best handheld CB radio, be on the lookout for several features characterizing top models. For starters, it should be compact and portable. Besides, you shouldn’t compromise on additional features, such as well-lit LCD, ease of use, and keypad lock features that enhance functionality.
